Understanding Violence: Dr. Gwen Adshead's First Reith Lecture

In this episode of Crime Time, Inc., we delve into the first of four Reith Lectures by Forensic Psychiatrist Dr. Gwen Adshead. Titled 'Is Violence Normal?' this lecture explores the complexities surrounding human violence. Dr. Adshead, who has extensive experience working in prisons and high-security hospitals like Broadmoor, argues that violence is a part of human nature and is influenced by various social and individual factors. She challenges the conventional notion of profiling typical killers and urges us to understand the relational contexts and risk factors that lead to violence. Using the analogy of a bicycle lock, she explains how different risk factors combine to unlock violent behaviour. Dr. Adshead highlights the importance of responsibility and the dangers of normalising violence through media and societal narratives. The discussion also touches on the role of mental illness, the potential for rehabilitation, and the need for nuanced approaches to preventing violence. Tune in for a thought-provoking episode that pushes us to reconsider our assumptions about violence and its perpetrators.

00:00 Introduction to the Reith Lectures

00:42 Overview of Dr. Gwen Adshead's Lectures

00:54 Is Violence Normal?

01:40 Understanding the Roots of Violence

03:30 The Bicycle Lock Analogy

04:28 Neutralization and Responsibility

06:19 Challenging the Concept of Evil

13:41 Rehabilitation and Change

15:24 Final Thoughts and Takeaways

About Crime Time Inc.

Season 5 of Crime Time Inc. broadens its reach across two sides of the Atlantic.

This season features cases from Scotland and across the wider UK — rooted in real investigative experience — alongside deep dives into some of the most infamous murder cases in American history.

Hosted by former detectives Simon and Tom, with experience in both the UK and the United States, including time working alongside the FBI, the show strips away sensationalism to explain how crime and justice really work.

Two crime worlds. One podcast.

New episodes released regularly throughout the season.

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